Hutchison: Transfer millions from ferries to buses

King County executive candidate Susan Hutchison this week sent a letter to County Council members urging them to take money they’re spending on ferries and use it instead for buses.

“Metro is facing cuts that could leave riders stranded at a time when our region is making tremendous strides to increase ridership. More than half of the $18 million annual ferry service levy which goes to fund future exploration or ‘demonstration’ routes in South King County and across Lake Washington can be reallocated to Metro. I believe these funds are best spent where people need them the most, preserving the bus service they rely upon,” Hutchison wrote.

Hutchison, the former KIRO-TV broadcaster, said the popular West Seattle and Vashon routes “should be kept for the time being.”

The county’s ferry district has has financial responsibility for the passenger-only runs from Vashon Island to downtown and West Seattle to downtown. It is looking at expanding service elsewhere in Puget Sound and to add new service across Lake Washington.

UPDATE

Sandeep Kaushik, campaign spokesman for exec candidate and County Council Chairman Dow Constantine, says the West Seattle ferry returns more at the fare box than a typical Metro bus, and the Vashon ferry is cost-effective as well in comparison to Metro bus service to rural areas.

“Dow will not support ferry routes on Lake Washington unless there is significant demand and the service is shown to be cost effective. That is what is under assessment right now. Susan Hutchison apparently does not understand that ferry district funds can not legally be moved to support Metro bus service. This letter is just the latest indication that she knows little about County issues and lacks the qualifications to serve as King County Executive,” Kaushik said in an e-mail.